Newcastle United’s Interest in Anthony Elanga: Is He a Perfect Fit for Our Attack

As the 2024/25 Premier League season concludes, Newcastle United have reportedly set their sights on Anthony Elanga, the dynamic winger who’s had a breakthrough campaign at Nottingham Forest. Elanga’s blend of pace, skill, and relentless work rate makes him a serious candidate to boost Newcastle’s attacking options ahead of next season.

👌 A Standout 2024/25 Season

During the 2024/25 season, Anthony Elanga demonstrated the qualities that have made him one of the league’s most exciting young wide players. His performances at Forest showcased a potent combination of directness and technical skill, earning plaudits for his ability to consistently beat defenders and create chances.

Elanga’s blistering pace remains one of his key assets. Official Premier League data highlights him among the fastest players in the league, regularly clocking speeds over 34 km/h. This raw speed enables him to exploit space on the counter-attack and turn defensive situations into quick offensive transitions, a trait perfectly aligned with Newcastle’s fast-paced style under Eddie Howe.

What sets Elanga apart is his two-footedness, a rare and valuable skill for a winger. Comfortable taking on defenders and delivering crosses or shots with either foot, Elanga’s ambidexterity makes him unpredictable and difficult to defend against. This versatility enhances Newcastle’s tactical options, allowing him to operate effectively on the inside or outside.

🔥 Dribbling and Beating Defenders

Elanga’s dribbling success has been impressive throughout the season. He averaged 4.8 successful dribbles per 90 minutes, with a success rate around 50%. This ability to consistently beat a man stretches defenses and creates space for teammates, adding a vital dimension to Newcastle’s attack that has sometimes been missing on the right hand side.

He also ranks as the most efficient ball-carrier in the Premier League among players with over 1,000 minutes. He averaged 14.5 metres per carry, with 76 % of that progress directed toward the opponent’s goal . A signature moment came in April against Manchester United, by Elanga unleashed a 54.1m drive from first touch to finish, which represented the longest carry-to-goal sequence in the league last season.

His flair on the ball is complemented by a tireless work rate, his willingness to press aggressively and contribute defensively is a quality Eddie Howe demands from his wide players.

⚫️⚪️ What Elanga Could Bring to Newcastle

Newcastle’s right wing options have struggled to combine speed, technical ability, and consistent end product all in one package. Elanga’s pace and two-footed threat would inject much-needed dynamism and unpredictability into the Magpies’ wide areas.

His ability to beat defenders and carry the ball at high speed would enhance Newcastle’s transition game, while his defensive work ethic would fit seamlessly into the team’s pressing system.

Moreover, Elanga’s young age and proven Premier League experience mean he offers both immediate impact and long-term potential, making him a smart investment for a club eager to build sustained success.

✅ Final Thoughts

Anthony Elanga’s 2024/25 season at Nottingham Forest revealed a winger with pace, technical skill, and relentless energy exactly the kind of player Newcastle United need to elevate their attacking threat.

If Newcastle can secure Elanga’s signature, without breaking the bank, fans can expect an exciting, hard-working winger ready to challenge defenders and bring fresh life to St. James’ Park. With his blend of speed, two-footed play, dribbling ability, and work rate, Elanga could be a key piece in Newcastle’s quest to climb the Premier League table.